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Vietnam's Digital Transformation: A Key Player in Global AI Initiatives

General Report March 1, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Overview of Vietnam's Digital Landscape
  3. Meetings with UN Officials: Progress and Initiatives
  4. Strengthening International Collaboration
  5. Future Directions and Recommendations
  6. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • Vietnam is emerging as a formidable player in the global digital economy, distinguishing itself through strategic alliances and modernization efforts that signal a robust commitment to advancing its technological landscape. Recent interactions with the United Nations highlight Vietnam's proactive stance in fostering international collaboration, particularly in the realms of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology governance. The meetings with UN officials, especially those with Amandeep Singh Gill, the UN Under-Secretary-General, have spurred in-depth discussions on integrating Vietnam's digital initiatives within a global framework, emphasizing the critical need for cooperative measures to enhance technological growth and resilience.

  • Notably, Vietnam's impressive digital infrastructure has laid a solid foundation for its ambitious digital transformation journey. With nearly universal broadband access and a growing emphasis on AI as a cornerstone of its technological agenda, the nation's approach aims not only to enhance its economic performance but also to position itself as a competitive player within the global AI ecosystem. This strategic pivot is encapsulated in Vietnam's ongoing National Digital Transformation Program, which serves as an instrumental roadmap for breaking new ground in technology and innovation.

  • Furthermore, Vietnam's vision of becoming a hub for digital talent and AI development aligns with its engagement in initiatives such as the United Nations' Global Digital Compact. This initiative aims to democratize access to technology and ensure that advancements benefit a wide demographic, ensuring that Vietnam remains at the forefront of global dialogues on technology governance. Reinforcing this commitment, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has articulated ambitious growth targets and the necessity of a structured approach to technology governance, underscoring the importance of international support in co-developing legal frameworks that can effectively manage the complexities of rapid digital evolution.

2. Overview of Vietnam's Digital Landscape

  • 2-1. Current state of Vietnam's digital infrastructure

  • Vietnam's digital infrastructure has seen remarkable development in the past few years, positioning the country as a significant player in the global digital ecosystem. As of early 2025, broadband internet access covers an impressive 99.8% of the population, indicating a near-universal connectivity that is rare worldwide. Additionally, approximately 85% of households are connected to fiber-optic networks, showcasing the government’s commitment to providing high-speed internet as a backbone for economic activities. The widespread availability of smartphones has also catalyzed the growth of mobile internet usage, making Vietnam one of the most digitally connected countries in Southeast Asia. Minister Nguyen Manh Hung has been at the forefront of these advancements, recently reiterating Vietnam’s prioritization of digital technology during discussions with UN officials. This solid commitment is further underscored by the National Digital Transformation Program, which has been embraced as a roadmap for Vietnam's digital future since its inception. The framework set by Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW in December 2024 emphasizes the need for breakthroughs in science and technology, aligning governmental policies with the rapid digital evolution occurring both locally and globally.

  • 2-2. Significance of AI development in Vietnam

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) development is central to Vietnam's digital strategy, as the country seeks to carve out a niche in the global AI landscape. Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, Vietnam aims to establish itself as a global hub for digital talent specializing in AI, semiconductor technology, and digital innovation. Approximately 10% of Vietnam's 60, 000 digital technology companies are generating revenue from international markets, which reflects the growth and scalability of the tech sector. The government's aspiration to strengthen the AI sector is coupled with the introduction of programs tailored to enhance both public and private AI applications. During meetings with UN representatives, Minister Hung expressed Vietnam's eagerness to participate in the United Nations' Global Digital Compact (GDC), specifically regarding its global AI excellence network. This initiative is designed to enhance AI capabilities in developing countries by facilitating the creation of context-specific AI systems. The emphasis on democratizing digital technology underlines Vietnam's strategy, ensuring that advancements benefit a broader demographic rather than being monopolized by a few dominant corporations. This collaborative approach aims to empower Vietnamese citizens, positioning them not just as consumers, but as active contributors to technological development.

  • 2-3. Impact of digital transformation on Vietnam's economy

  • Digital transformation is fundamentally reshaping Vietnam's economy, driving growth, innovation, and productivity across numerous sectors. As the government continues to invest in digital infrastructure and AI capability, the economy is witnessing a shift towards digital services, with e-commerce, fintech, and online education quickly gaining traction. The emphasis on digital transformation aligns with Vietnam’s broader economic goals and is an integral part of its international collaboration strategies, especially with organizations like the UN. The incorporation of digital technologies into traditional industries is expected to further optimize operational efficiencies, driving economic diversification and enhancing the country's global competitiveness. The local digital ecosystem's rapid expansion reflects the increasing reliance on technology for everyday activities, thereby influencing consumer behavior and expectations. Through partnerships and support from international bodies, Vietnam aims to leverage these technological advancements to solidify its economic resilience and foster sustainable development.

3. Meetings with UN Officials: Progress and Initiatives

  • 3-1. Discussion with UN Under-Secretary-General Amandeep Singh Gill

  • On January 6, 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed UN Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies, Amandeep Singh Gill, in Hanoi. This meeting underscored Vietnam's commitment to international cooperation in technology, particularly in the realms of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and innovation. Prime Minister Chinh highlighted that Gill's visit serves as a testament to the UN's dedication to facilitating collaborative efforts in these critical fields, which are essential for national progress and play a pivotal role in shaping global future developments. During the discussion, Chinh reaffirmed Vietnam's proactive stance as a member of the international community, valuing multilateralism and sustainable development as core principles of its collaboration with the UN.

  • In this context, Prime Minister Chinh detailed Vietnam’s strategic vision for harnessing technology to achieve significant economic growth. He elaborated on various programs, including the National Digital Transformation Programme aimed at 2025, which is designed to position Vietnam as a hub of innovation and technology. Chinh stated, 'We aim for an 8% growth rate by 2025, ultimately achieving double-digit growth in subsequent years to emerge as a modern industry and high-income nation by 2045.' This ambitious plan aligns with numerous initiatives announced by the Politburo, which recently issued Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, focusing on breakthroughs in technology and innovation, thereby formalizing Vietnam’s commitment to prioritizing these areas.

  • Under-Secretary-General Gill acknowledged Vietnam's significant advancements in technology and its potential to serve as a model for other developing nations. His remarks reflected on the outcomes of previous dialogues with Vietnam’s leaders, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration in tackling global challenges. Gill expressed optimism about Vietnam's role in the UN's Global Digital Compact, which aims to foster international standards for technology governance, ensuring that the march towards digital inclusivity benefits not only Vietnam but also developing countries at large.

  • 3-2. Highlights from the meeting about Iraq’s digital technology

  • While the primary focus of the meeting pertained to Vietnam's digital transformation initiatives, there were also discussions regarding broader implications of digital technology in the region, including Iraq. Both parties recognized the transformative potential of digital technology as a tool for rebuilding and sustaining economies affected by conflict and instability. The conversations highlighted the necessity of sharing technological advancements and governance frameworks among nations, particularly those facing developmental hurdles like Iraq.

  • The UN's initiative to promote knowledge transfer and capacity building was discussed, with emphasis on how Vietnam's experiences in digital technology could serve as a learning blueprint for Iraq. This aspect of the dialogue reflected a critical acknowledgment that regional cooperation can enhance technological progress, thereby improving socio-economic conditions across nations struggling with similar challenges. Gill reiterated the UN's commitment to facilitate knowledge-sharing platforms that allow nations like Iraq to leap forward in digitalization, inspired by Vietnam's recent advancements.

  • In summary, discussions on Iraq underscored the shared responsibility among nations to aid each other in achieving technology-driven growth, portraying the meeting as a step towards establishing a collaborative network that can address regional disparities in technological empowerment.

  • 3-3. Vietnam's invitation to join global AI excellence network

  • Following this high-level meeting, Vietnam extended an invitation to join the Global AI Excellence Network, a strategic move aimed at boosting its integration into the global digital ecosystem. Prime Minister Chinh emphasized the importance of being part of this network to foster collaboration with leading tech nations and organizations. This initiative reflects Vietnam’s aspiration to not only enhance its own technological prowess but also contribute to setting international standards in AI governance and technology development.

  • Gill strongly endorsed Vietnam's application to join the network, recognizing its substantial progress in AI development and its goals aligned with the Global Digital Compact. By integrating into this network, Vietnam seeks to harness the collective expertise of global leaders in AI, thereby elevating its own research and development initiatives. Furthermore, this collaboration promises substantial benefits, including access to advanced technologies and participation in global discussions that shape AI governance frameworks.

  • The invitation aligns with Vietnam's ongoing efforts to establish itself as a leader in digital transformation and AI. By engaging actively in the Global AI Excellence Network, Vietnam is poised to leverage international expertise and resources to bolster its technology sector while promoting a responsible and ethical approach to AI deployment. This initiative clearly illustrates Vietnam’s proactive and ambitious vision for its role within the global technological community.

4. Strengthening International Collaboration

  • 4-1. Vietnam's role in global digital cooperation

  • Vietnam has been positioned as a leading example in leveraging digital technologies to drive both domestic growth and address global challenges. Recently, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh underscored Vietnam's commitment to science and technology as strategic priorities in national development during his discussions with UN Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies, Amandeep Singh Gill. This engagement is indicative of the Vietnam government's proactive stance in enhancing its technological framework in alignment with global standards, fostering multilateral cooperation in several areas, including artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. Moreover, Vietnam’s Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of international collaboration to tackle present challenges and sustainably develop technology sectors. The discussions included key areas where Vietnam is keen on receiving UN support, such as establishing a legal framework for technology governance, promoting technology transfer, and enhancing human resource training for AI. With Vietnam's intention to host or co-organize international tech events, the country positions itself as an essential player in fostering global dialogues on technological advancement and AI governance.

  • 4-2. UN’s proposed support for Vietnam's technology governance

  • The United Nations has been pivotal in promoting international cooperation and governance in emerging technologies, especially in the context of AI. The recommendations made during the discussions between Vietnamese leaders and the UN suggest several vital initiatives aimed at bolstering Vietnam's technology governance. The UN proposed a framework that supports the establishment of international standards while focusing on the legal aspects necessary for managing rapidly evolving technologies. Notably, Amandeep Singh Gill highlighted the role of digital governance in achieving the UN's 2030 development goals. The suggestions included the formation of a global digital fund designed to help developing countries, like Vietnam, bridge the gaps in technology access and advancement, ensuring equitable distribution of resources to thrive in the digital economy. Therefore, the collaboration emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong legal framework that underpins Vietnam’s technology policies, thereby enhancing its capability to engage effectively on the international stage.

  • 4-3. Strategic initiatives between Vietnam and the UN for digital transformation

  • Vietnam's current digital transformation journey is significantly influenced by strategic partnerships with prominent international entities, including the UN. One central initiative is the 'Global Digital Compact, ' which aims to establish inclusive protocols for the governance of digital and AI technologies. This initiative illustrates the UN’s commitment to fostering a comprehensive dialogue on how member states can engage collaboratively while developing appropriate regulations tailor-fitted to their unique contexts. Furthermore, the establishment of an AI governance policy forum is one of the key strategic proposals that would allow nations to share best practices, foster mutual learning, and enhance global connectivity. By actively participating in these dialogues, Vietnam can reinforce its position as a proactive player within the international community, actively contributing insights from its burgeoning tech ecosystem. The encouragement for Vietnamese tech companies to engage in initiatives ranging from digital inclusion to education further exemplifies an overarching strategy that integrates Vietnam’s local needs and goals within a global framework.

5. Future Directions and Recommendations

  • 5-1. Importance of legal frameworks for tech governance

  • In navigating the complexities of digital transformation, Vietnam must prioritize the establishment of robust legal frameworks that guide technology governance. Currently, Vietnam is enhancing its approach to technology governance by aligning with international standards, thereby fostering innovation while ensuring sustainable development. The necessity for legal instruments that effectively address data privacy, cybersecurity, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) cannot be overstated. As highlighted by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, in his discussions with UN officials, there is an urgent call for support in developing international standards that govern technology use, especially in light of the rapid advancements in AI and digital technologies. Legal frameworks serve not only to protect citizens’ rights but also to enhance Vietnam's attractiveness to foreign investment in the tech sector. A comprehensive regulatory landscape will provide clarity, reducing barriers to entry for foreign companies and encouraging local businesses to innovate. Moreover, legal structures should promote transparency and accountability, particularly concerning AI applications, which impact decision-making processes across various sectors.

  • Furthermore, the need for international partnerships in shaping these legal frameworks is paramount. By leveraging insights and best practices from global counterparts, Vietnam can develop laws that are not only relevant but also forward-looking, anticipating the challenges posed by emerging technologies. As Minister Nguyen Manh Hung noted, democratizing digital technology requires an inclusive policy approach, ensuring that stakeholders, including tech firms and civil society, contribute to the legal discourse around technology governance. In summary, the formation of strong legal frameworks is essential for Vietnam's digital future. These frameworks will provide the necessary structure for responsible technology adoption, enabling the nation to thrive as a key player in the global digital economy.

  • 5-2. Recommendations for enhancing Vietnam's digital capabilities

  • To enhance Vietnam's digital capabilities, a multi-faceted approach must be adopted, focusing on infrastructure, education, and research and development. First and foremost, continued investment in digital infrastructure is essential. Minister Hung has reported significant achievements in broadband connectivity, with 99.8% of the population having access to fast internet. However, sustaining this momentum is crucial, particularly in rural areas where access may lag. Increasing investment in fiber-optic networks and state-of-the-art telecommunications systems will bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to online resources. Education and training form the backbone of advancing digital competencies among the workforce. Vietnam should prioritize initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and technical skills, particularly in AI and data science. This involves integrating technology-focused curricula within traditional education frameworks and promoting vocational training programs that equip individuals with practical skills relevant to the evolving job market. Collaboration with educational institutions globally can enrich Vietnam's educational approach, ensuring that the workforce is prepared to meet the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Moreover, fostering an environment conducive to research and innovation is vital. By incentivizing partnerships between academia and the tech industry, Vietnam can stimulate breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Initiatives such as establishing incubators and innovation hubs can nurture startups that contribute to the digital economy, enriching the ecosystem and propelling advancements. As emphasized in the National Digital Transformation Program, fostering a culture of innovation will be integral as Vietnam aims to position itself as a global hub for technology.

  • Finally, investment in R&D must focus not only on domestic capabilities but also on collaboration with international tech leaders. This includes establishing strategic alliances with global companies and institutions to engage in joint research initiatives, ultimately enhancing Vietnam's technological prowess. As highlighted in the conversations with UN officials, such partnerships can drive socio-economic development, leveraging Vietnam's unique strengths in the tech landscape. In conclusion, enhancing Vietnam's digital capabilities requires a holistic approach, balancing infrastructure development, education, and fostering innovation through strategic partnerships.

  • 5-3. Call for global partnerships in technology development

  • As global digitalization progresses, Vietnam must actively seek out and nurture strategic global partnerships to bolster its technology development. The dialogues with UN officials have underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional and global challenges through technology. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's discussions emphasized the necessity of international cooperation in areas such as AI, IoT, and big data, which are pivotal in driving Vietnam's digital transformation journey. Collaborative initiatives can significantly enhance Vietnam's access to resources, expertise, and technology transfer, facilitating faster advancement in its digital capabilities. For instance, establishing international research and education alliances can elevate Vietnam’s position in the global tech landscape, providing access to cutting-edge knowledge and practices that other countries have successfully implemented. Additionally, such partnerships can help foster an environment where innovation thrives, aligning with Vietnam's vision to become a source of digital talent in the region. The importance of aligning with international frameworks, such as the UN's Global Digital Compact, further emphasizes the need for Vietnam to engage actively in global dialogues around technology governance, innovation, and ethical standards. By positioning itself within these frameworks, Vietnam can advocate for its interests while contributing to the collective goal of achieving equitable access and ethical considerations in technology deployment. Ultimately, fostering diverse global partnerships will be crucial for Vietnam as it navigates the challenges and opportunities within the digital economy. These collaborations will facilitate knowledge sharing, promote technology transfer, and drive innovation, enhancing Vietnam's position as a leader in digital transformation on the global stage. This highlights the importance of global cooperation in digital advancements.

Conclusion

  • As Vietnam forges ahead in its digital transformation journey, its recent interactions with the United Nations signify a pivotal opportunity for establishing itself as a prominent figure in the global digital landscape. The discussions have underscored the urgency of establishing robust legal frameworks that can govern emerging technologies effectively and ensure ethical standards in AI deployment. It is imperative that Vietnam cultivates international partnerships to enhance its technologies while promoting sustainable development and equitable access to digital resources across its population.

  • Looking ahead, the path for Vietnam hinges on its ability to engage effectively with global stakeholders and contribute to international technology governance discourses. Through strategic collaborations, Vietnam can unlock new avenues of growth, gain invaluable insights, and establish a conducive environment for innovation. The insights derived from these partnerships not only bolster Vietnam's domestic capabilities but also enable its leadership role in shaping the narrative around digital transformation in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

  • In summary, Vietnam's engagement in ongoing dialogues with international entities exemplifies its commitment to leveraging technology as a driving force for socio-economic progress. By prioritizing collaboration, legislative fortitude, and a forward-thinking approach, Vietnam is poised to capitalize on its digital opportunities and solidify its stance as a leader in both regional and global frameworks related to technology advancement. This trajectory emphasizes the growing importance of global cooperation in navigating the complexities of digital transformation, thereby setting the stage for continued evolution within the digital economy.

Glossary

  • National Digital Transformation Program [Document]: A government initiative in Vietnam aimed at enhancing the country's digital infrastructure and leveraging technology for economic growth and innovation.
  • Global Digital Compact [Event]: An initiative by the United Nations aimed at democratizing access to technology and ensuring that digital advancements benefit a broad demographic.
  • Amandeep Singh Gill [Person]: The UN Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies, involved in discussions regarding Vietnam's digital transformation and international cooperation.
  • AI Excellence Network [Concept]: A global network aimed at enhancing artificial intelligence capabilities among member countries, facilitating collaboration and resource sharing.
  • Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW [Document]: A governmental resolution issued by the Politburo of Vietnam, focusing on breakthroughs in technology and innovation as part of its digital transformation agenda.
  • Fourth Industrial Revolution [Concept]: A term indicating the current era of technological transformation characterized by advancements in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data.

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